Amidst the congested and crowded streets of Zamin Pallavaram, a southern suburb of Chennai, a peaceful Agraharam called Perumal Koil street is situated. On that street, the lesser-known temple of Vaikunthavasa Perumal is found.
The east-facing small temple has no gopuram at its entrance. The main shrine consists of Garbha griha (sanctum), Ardha Mandapa, Maha Mandapa and Mukha mandapa.
In Garbha griha, Vishnu and his consorts Sri Devi and Bhoo Devi are found seated. Vishnu is named Vaikunthavasa Perumal. The beautiful stone icon is about four feet tall.
The base of vimana is made of granite. The superstructure is renovated, but somewhat retains the original style. Based on the architectural style, we can assume that the sanctum and Ardha Mandapa were built during the late Chola period (12th or 13th century CE). Unfortunately, there is no inscription to ascertain our assumption.
At the entrance of Ardha mandapa, two Chola era giant-sized high relief images of Dwarapalas are found. They are about 7 to 8 feet tall.
The Maha mandapa, Mukha mandapa and other parts of the temple are later additions. They cannot be more than 300-400 years old.
In the Maha mandapa, Kanakavalli is found in a sub-shrine.
The pillared Mukha mandapa are interestingly studded with a few Shaivite-related sculptures, such as a Shiva Linga.
Garuda is found facing the main shrine.
A stone bali peetha (offering pedestal) and a wooden lamp post are located behind the sub-shrine of Garuda.
There is one prakara (circumbabulation) around the main shrine.
It is such a beautiful Vishnu located in a peaceful and serene site. Not only people from Pallavaram, but everyone across the entire city of Chennai should visit the place at least once in their lifetime.
Happy travelling.
